Description
This Spicy-Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich with Jalapeño is the ultimate flavor bomb — crispy, juicy fried chicken glazed with hot honey, topped with tangy pickled jalapeños, and nestled in a toasted brioche bun with creamy sauce. It’s the perfect balance of sweet heat and crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally (to make 4 pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Hot Honey Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1–2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- For the Sandwich:
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tbsp butter (for toasting)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños
- Lettuce leaves and sliced pickles (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight in the refrigerator).
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in flour mixture. Press firmly to coat well. Place coated chicken on a wire rack and rest for 10 minutes to set the crust.
- Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Drain on paper towels.
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar over low heat until smooth. Brush or drizzle over fried chicken while hot.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and hot sauce to create the sandwich sauce.
- Butter and toast brioche buns in a skillet until golden.
- Assemble sandwiches: spread sauce on both bun halves, layer lettuce (if using), fried chicken, pickled jalapeños, and pickles. Top with the other bun half and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use spicy honey or chili-infused honey for an extra kick.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken (back into buttermilk and then into flour again).
- Air fry version: Cook breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Pairs perfectly with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a side of creamy mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American